Protein

Of course everybody needs protein, it is important for tissue growth and repair, hormone production, and immunity among other things.

My first thought when I was considering becoming a vegetarian was, "how would I get enough protein?" Many people have the misconception that meat is primarily the only way to meet your protein needs. Not true. Plants have protein, too.

The general rule is that if you're getting enough calories for your activity level, you are most likely getting enough protein anyway.

Here's how to figure out how much protein you need on a daily basis:

.36 grams X your body weight in pounds.
So, for a 130 lb. person, he/she needs about 46.

Here are the approximate protein values of some common foods:

1 serving of kidney beans = 24 grams
1 serving of lima beans = 22 grams
1 serving of tempeh = 18 grams
1 cup of lentils = 17 grams
1 cup of peas = 16 grams
1 serving of tofu = 15 grams
1 cup of rice = 13 grams
South Beach Diet cereal bar = 10 grams
1 oz. of pumpkin seeds = 9 grams
1 serving of chunky peanut butter = 7 grams
1 cup of cooked spaghetti noodles = 7 grams
1 oz. of almonds = 6 grams
1 cup of spinach = 6 grams
1 cup of corn = 5 grams
1 oz. of peanuts = 5 grams

Too much protein has actually been linked to many health problems. Many Americans, meat-eaters, probably are consuming too much. Which of course, increases fat and cholesterol, but the amino acids also make your body more acidic. Calcium from your bones is then taken to neutralize your blood. Excessive protein is also linked with diabetes, kidney disease, and prostate cancer.

A vegetable stir-fry with rice, a little pasta for lunch, a handful of nuts, and a salad a day - you should be able to easily meet your protein needs.